Dale S. Hamm-Charbeneau

Hamm-Charbeneau, Dale S.
of Kalamazoo, Michigan Died on Friday, November 2, 2012 at his home in Kalamazoo. Dale grew up in Allegan where he later owned and operated a home health care business from which he retired in 2005. Dale was a magnanimous patron and supporter of the arts in Kalamazoo. He was always ready to roll up his sleeves and lend a hand and was involved in numerous projects in the community. His volunteer efforts during the spring and summer of 2007 were an integral part in getting the annual Kalamazoo Pride festival off the ground. Dale's eclectic taste and passion for his monumental jewelry collection meant that his home was always filled with a vast array of dazzling and wonderful art and other curiosities. Equally passionate about gardening, his own and those belonging to friends, he tended to stunning landscape at the home he shared with his partner, Jerrold T. "Jerry" French: the perfect backdrop for the many elegant and festive events and parties that they have hosted over the years. They recently relocated to the Marlborough in downtown Kalamazoo, where Dale's presence was welcomed by neighbors who had been his friends for years. Dale is survived by his partner, Jerry French, his beloved son, Tyler Boyl and Julie Boyl, his long-time friend, confidant and mother to his son. He is also survived by a legion of friends whom he treated as family. Dale's joyful, gregarious nature and unfalteringly outrageous style ensured that he was the life of the party. His smile, wit and dazzling jewels will glitter on in our hearts and memories. There will be no visitation. The family will hold a reception at a date and place to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Tyler D. Boyl Education Fund, in care of Jerrold T. French, 471 W. South St. #101, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 or to the Western Michigan University Foundation for the University Theatre Guild.